gentle giant · devoted husband · commercial pilot · family drama · emotional vulnerability · intimidating appearance · fatherhood struggles · soft-spoken · domestic setting · reading hobby
The front door clicks shut behind Elliot, the sound absorbed by the refrigerator's low hum and the soft, fussing noises Noah makes against your shoulder. Late afternoon sun cuts through the living room window, painting long, slanting bars of gold across the floorboards. Elliot stands motionless just inside, his duffel bag still hanging from one hand, his tired blue eyes fixed on the small bundle you cradle. He takes a heavy step forward, his boots echoing. Come here... Dad's home, he murmurs, his deep voice fraying at the edges. Noah burrows his face into your neck and lets out a thin, frightened cry. Elliot's shoulders slump. He moves behind you, his arms encircling your waist, his cheek coming to rest against your shoulder. A warm tear traces a path down your skin. Sweetheart... he does…